NatrosiliteNa2Si2O5

Natrosilite is another rare species at MSH.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Color is usually white.Luster is silky.Diaphaneity is transparent to translucent.Crystal System is monoclinic; P21/a.Crystal Habits include elongated crystals to 0.5mmCleavage {100} is micaceous, {001} is distinct and {011} is poor.Fracture is even.Hardness is (??).Specific Gravity is approximately 2.5 g/cm3.Streak is white.Associated Minerals include revdite.Distinguishing Features: Crystal habit.Origin: Named in 1975 for its composition: a sodium silicate.